Getting to Know Herbs: Blue Cohosh

The next plant along the trail of the herb garden was the Blue Cohosh. It's also referred to as Blue Ginseng, Papoose Root, Cohosh Azul, Squaw Root and Yellow Ginseng, among others. It's a medium-tall perennial with blue fruits. The leaves are tulip shaped.

Key Points

available as a supplement

similar effects to hormone estrogen

supplement made from roots and rhizome

used in traditional Herbal Medicine as a uterine tonic and to help relieve menstrual pain.

History

The name "cohosh" means "rough" and comes from the Algonquin Native Americans who used it. It was also used by Menomini, Meskawi, Ojibwe, and Potawatomi tribes. The main uses were for menstrual cramps, to suppress profuse menstruation, and to induce contractions in labor. In the 19th century, it was still used widely as an emmenagogue (increase blood flow for uterus), parturient (inducing labor), and antispasmodic (suppress muscle spasms).

Where is it found

It's found in central and eastern North America from Manitoba and Oklahoma east to the Atlantic Ocean. Look in hardwood forests of the eastern United States, particularly in moist coves and hillsides with shady locations and in rich soil.

Are there any risks?

It's potentially unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Some of the chemicals are linked to possibly causing birth defects. It can narrow blood vessels, and potentially cause heart problems in newborns. It can be toxic.

It can worsen some heart conditions like angina and high blood pressure. Blood vessels int heart may become smaller and decrease oxygen flow. Rapid heartbeat and high blood pressure can result.

Acting like estrogen, some conditions that are made worse by exposure to estrogen should avoid blue cohosh.

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